The Commerce Police Department's K9 officer, Dexter, has been honored with the "Healthcare for K9 Heroes" Grant by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a nationwide charity based in East Taunton, MA. The 501c(3) non-profit organization's mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement dogs across the United States.
The "Healthcare for K9 Heroes" medical insurance program, which covers annual policy premiums, has been extended for 2024. Since 2016, the charity has donated over $359,480 to support medical reimbursement programs for self-funded K9 units.
The recipients of the 2024 grant include Commerce Police Department, TX, with K9 Dexter; Poteet ISD Police Department, TX, with K9 Eni; and Leflore County Sheriff’s Office, OK, with K9 Dingo.
This grant is awarded to departments facing financial challenges in supporting their K9 units, possessing no more than three K9s, and having previously received a vest from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Law enforcement dogs aged two through seven are eligible for the annual medical reimbursement insurance policy, administered by Trupanion. The coverage includes illnesses, injuries (including those sustained in the line of duty), diagnostic testing, and therapies. The plan provides flexibility in choosing any licensed veterinarian, specialty center, or emergency hospital in the United States.
Trupanion, a leading provider of medical insurance for cats and dogs, offers comprehensive injury and illness coverage for working and service dogs, both on and off duty. With almost two decades of experience, Trupanion aims to ease the financial burden for pet owners and working dog handlers, allowing them to focus on their canine companions' recovery.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has not only supported healthcare reimbursement programs but has also provided over 5,379 law enforcement dogs across all 50 states with U.S.-made, custom-fitted, NIJ-certified bullet and stab-protective vests. The total value of these vests exceeds $6.9 million dollars.
For more information about Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., interested parties can contact them at 508-824-6978. Tax-deductible donations can be made via mail to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718, or through their website at www.vik9s.org.
